Tech the halls: Christmas decoration mistakes that can wreck your WI-FI

Experts are warning households that misplaced decorations and increased usage may affect their broadband connectivity this festive season.

Research from Uswitch.com, the comparison and switching service, has revealed that 79% of Brits don’t realise that their decorations could interrupt broadband speed at home^[1]. 

So essential is a stable internet connection to festive celebrations, that a third (34%) would go as far as claiming they would take no decorations over poor Wi-Fi this festive season^[2], and almost half (40%) claim that slow broadband would impact their enjoyment of Christmas^[3].

From Christmas tree positioning to fairy-light logistics, Richard Dowden, tech expert at Uswitch, shares his top tips for improving your broadband this Christmas: 

1. Furniture placement: Be mindful when rearranging furniture. Large items near your router can block the Wi-Fi signal and slow your broadband speed. If you need to make space for your Christmas tree, keep it away from the router.
2. Run a speed test: Start by checking your internet speed to see how fast your connection is. If your contract includes a minimum speed guarantee and it’s not being met, your provider has 30 days to fix the issue, or you can switch providers without paying early termination fees.
3. Minimise interference: Other electrical devices can interfere with your Wi-Fi connection, meaning even fairy lights can slow down broadband speed. Keep them, along with other electronics like lamps, speakers, TVs, and monitors, as far from the router as possible.
4. Wi-Fi extender: In large houses or homes with thick walls or loft conversions, some areas might have weak or no signal. If you have poor Wi-Fi strength, consider putting a Wi-Fi extender, or a mesh Wi-Fi system on your gift list this year, which will help to eliminate dead spots. Plug the extender halfway between your router and the hard-to-reach areas to amplify the signal throughout your home.
5. Direct connection: For devices that use a lot of data, like smart TVs, set-top boxes, or gaming consoles, a direct network cable connection can be a cheaper and more stable option - perfect for uninterrupted Christmas Day streaming.
6. Update devices: Ensure all your devices have the latest software updates, as these can include performance improvements that enhance your connection.
7. Plan big-bandwidth moments: Save broadband-intensive activities such as streaming or large downloads for off-peak hours when fewer people use the internet.

ENDS